Pet Lifestyle & Entertainment Archives - Page 5 of 5

June 5, 2021August 21, 2023

9 Memes ESA Owners Can Relate To

Or as we are calling it: dog memes for the rest of us. There is no shortage of animal memes all over the internet. But what about those loving emotional support dogs who support us every day? They deserve a special place in the memedom of the internet. We found 9 totally relatable memes to capture those special moments with your ESA.

1. One thing at a time, Human!

“She said what??? Omg, SO cringey” Talk about empathy! You can (and do!) tell your ESA everything. Now that’s a loyal friend!

2. WHAT IS THAT?!

Every time you give your dog a treat, it’s like they’re getting one for the first time. The awe, the wonder! That crinkle of the snack bag, the rustle of the box… “What is that?!?” We go through this every day, Fluffy.

3. Oops, I did it again!

Cue the Brittney Spears because you just stepped on it…again. That’s ok – we all need some playtime!

4. Good morning, Human! Breakfast?

What better way to wake up?? That grinning morning face makes it a little easier to get your feet on the floor and start your day. That morning breath though! “We are talking to you, Human!”

5. Man Dog, Dog Man?

We love our ESA’s as much as the next person…. ok well, maybe not as much as THIS guy. Whose idea was this? We’re thinking the dog lost a bet.

6. Find your bliss, Linda. We’re here for you!

Can you have too much of a good thing? When it comes to emotional support dogs, definitely not.

7. Let a sleeping dog lie.

This guy supports your need to nap. What a pal. Climb in, cuddle up, and get some Zzzzs…. If you can get your pillow back.

8. Thera-pupist

We’d pay more than a dollar for this cutie’s advice! These should be set up everywhere in the world. Best therapist ever!

9. Work it!

Looks like your ESA got ahold of your phone for some selfie time! Keep trying! Every dog picture is a good dog picture.

We love our therapeutic puppy friends and can never get enough of their antics! No matter how goofy, silly, or technologically challenged they are, they’re the best at making us feel loved and supported. And while they make some adorable memes, they are even better friends!

May 21, 2021August 21, 2023

5 Ways to Keep Your Energetic Dog Entertained When You Can’t Go Out In The Rain

The weather outside is frightful! Throughout the late spring and summer, many parts of the United States see regular rain and heavy thunderstorms. That can make it hard to go outside as much as you – and your dog – would like to.

Dogs vary greatly in their responses to rain, soggy ground, and sometimes cold spring weather. Some dogs LOVE rain but really hate wet grass under their paws. Others won’t set foot outside when the rain is coming down, but they are ironically happy to play in a lake or pond.. Still others are willing to go out only long enough to take care of necessities and then run right back inside. If you are able to safely get your dog some outside time, make sure to keep an eye out for puddles that may contain things like oil from a car or pesticide run off and clean their paws completely when you’re back home, or invest in paw protection before you go out. Even so, there are times it’s just too wet and nasty for man or beast to leave home.

And if you’ve had an energetic dog going stir crazy in yucky weather, you know how badly that can go, for you and your furniture…your shoes… your plants…your treat supply. Even the most wonderful dog can go a little wild when they are unable to burn off excess energy. If, like so many of us, you’re working from home, it’s even harder! In their doggie brains, you’re there and that means you’re available for a walk! (They don’t check the weather apps.) How can you keep your pooch occupied for an extended time when they can’t go out much?

The Shell Game

This used to be a staple on game shows for humans! Use three opaque cups (clean, empty yogurt containers are perfect) and put a treat under just one of them. You must let your pet watch you do this. Then, while they watch, mix up all three cups, swapping their positions several times. Step back and see how long it takes your pooch to find the treat. They’re developing scenting skills and solving a puzzle, which is great for their brains.

Treat-dispensing Toys

We all know how much our dogs love their treats! Making those treats harder to get will keep them occupied for hours (or at least minutes). Whether you choose a Kong, a Buster Cube, a Genie, a DIY option made from a tennis ball or something completely different, your dog will be intensely occupied trying to get at the goodies inside! Some pet owners swear by peanut butter inside a Kong! (Pro tip: if peanut butter is your dog’s favorite treat, make sure you use a toy that can be safely washed with HOT water and soap or run through the dishwasher.)

For an extra level of difficulty, get a few of these toys, fill them up and hide them in your dog’s favorite spots while they’re napping. If you have flights of stairs, a basement, multiple levels of your house, make the most of your space. Their noses will lead them to the treats and extend the fun and mental workout!

Interact as Much as You Can

Tug of war, wrestling, fetch, hide and seek – all of these will keep your active dog engaged inside. What you can do is obviously dependent on how much space you have and how big your puppy is. It’s SO hard for them if you’re working from home and focusing on anything BUT them. Taking even 20 minutes to play with them, twice a day, followed by delivery of a fresh Kong, will satiate their needs for both activity and YOU time.

If you have stairs inside your home, you can use those to make the most of “fetch,” throwing things to the top and bottom, and wearing your puppy out.

Slow Feeding Toys

Snuffle mats, puzzle feeders, lick mats and other options take the treat-dispensing toy to another level. These creative options, available online and at major pet retails outlets, make your dog work for their food. Unlike cats, dogs are known for scarfing their food down. Slow feeders can help keep your pooch from eating too fast, while keeping them entertained.

They exercise your dog’s brain in ways you couldn’t imagine! If you want to make a slow-feeding toy specific to your pet, Pinterest and YouTube have tons of options and detailed directions to help you out. The idea is that your pet has to solve the puzzle or follow the path to get to their dinner.

Learn More Tricks

IF you have the time, being home with your dog can be a great time to learn new things. We know that, even if you’re working from home, you may not have the time you WANT to devote to your dog. But if you do have the time, indoor time is a wonderful opportunity to teach even an old dog new tricks. Check out YouTube and Pinterest to learn more awesome ideas about how you can train your dog while spending more time inside.

Get Another Dog

We know…. This might sound counter intuitive. Two dogs are more work than one. But the bonus is that they keep each other entertained! Two dogs, no matter their relative ages, will keep each other exercised, entertained, happy and healthy. They will chase each other, play tag with each other and tug of war over anything they can (hopefully not your favorite shoes!).

If you already have a younger dog or puppy, getting them a BFF will have exactly that benefit. They’ll have a friend for life who will grow and age with them. If your dog is older or senior, getting a younger dog will help them become revitalized, more energized and healthier. Of course, it’s important to make sure that the dogs have chemistry and play well together.

It’s not easy to get your energetic dog to stay calm when they can’t go outside like they’re used to. But there are lots of ways you can help your dog burn off calories and adrenaline, no matter what the conditions outside are. Playing inside as much as you can and keeping your dog’s brain active will help make that easier.

To take your dog almost anywhere, no matter the weather, get them certified as an Emotional Support Animal! The laws are going to change and prices will increase, so it’s the perfect time to learn how to make that happen, at the best possible prices. Get your pet certified as an ESA now!

May 6, 2021May 6, 2021

7 Ways to Relax with Your Pet

Pets are so good for us! Just having a pet in your home can make you less stressed and bring both joy and unconditional love to your household. It can also help you relax and reduce stress!

In today’s world, stress is a big problem for most people. US employers lose billions of dollars each year due to stress and stress-related illnesses. Stress can cause people to have a lack of energy and focus, reduced creativity and more. For people suffering from stress, bringing a pet into their lives can make a huge difference.

Some studies have also shown that:

People with pets have lower blood pressure when stressed than those who don’t and adopting a pet can even help reduce blood pressure.
Playing with a pet raises levels of dopamine and serotonin, both of which are calming, relaxing chemicals.
People who own pets have lower indicators of heart disease.
People who’ve had heart attacks survive longer if they have a pet.
Older pet owners visit the doctor 30% less.
Pet parents are less likely to suffer from depression.

Scientists believe that oxytocin, the same chemical responsible for romantic bonds and parent-child bonding, is responsible for our human connection to pets, a connection that is boosted through touch. When we interact with animals, especially dogs, oxytocin is boosted in both us and the animal. This may be part of why dogs are man’s best friend. Dogs boost our oxytocin levels just by making eye contact, the same way that babies do with their parents. They are able to calm us just by being there, which is why they make such wonderful emotional support animals! Although the simple presence of a pet in your home can bring many of these health benefits, it’s important to be proactive – and active – in relaxing with your pet to make the most of the connections. What are some great ways to do that?

1. Take a walk!

Your dog needs exercise, and so do you. Having a dog, especially if you don’t have a yard, means taking them out regularly for walks. Dog owners are far more likely to get their daily steps in and be more fit than people without dogs. Physical exercise helps humans reduce stress and lower blood pressure as well.

Making sure your dog gets enough exercise helps keep them calm and relaxed when inside too. Burning off all that excess energy, especially in puppies and young dogs, is as good for your furniture and shoes as it is for the two of you! You might even make new connections with your neighbors as you stroll around the block.

2. Visit the dog park.

If you have a dog park nearby, it’s a wonderful way to let your pooch run with other dogs. Dog parks are fenced, so they’re safe, and most dog owners who bring their dogs make sure their pets are well-socialized and friendly before doing so. Hanging out and chatting with other pet parents while your dogs run and play in a secure environment is very relaxing. Bonus points if the dog park is a walkable distance away!

3. Set aside time for playing.

Whether you have a cat, dog or other pet, most love to play! Invest in some good toys that allow you to interact with your pet. Maybe your dog loves to play tug-of-war, or your kitty loves to try to catch a bird on a “fishing pole.” Laser pointers can be fun for both cats and dogs to chase. And of course, almost every dog loves to play catch and fetch.

Consider taking your pet to the “toy store” and see what they gravitate toward. All of these activities help your pet burn energy and allow your bonds with them to deepen, ultimately boosting all those lovely chemicals mentioned above. They also see you as a source of fun and good times, which also increases that bond.

4. Pet them.

The importance of petting your cat or dog regularly cannot be overstated. Humans need touch, and so do our pets. Just petting a cat or dog is shown to reduce heart rate and blood pressure as all those good hormones and chemicals flood our brains and bodies. A good snuggle session makes even bad days better and makes good days awesome!

If you like to watch TV and movies to relax, turn that into cuddle time with your cat or dog. If that turns into “Netflix and napping,” so much the better. Any time you’re sitting with your hands free can become time to pet your pet.

5. Wrestle with them.

Many dogs, especially bigger breeds, love to wrestle with their people. It offers connection and play time that they enjoy. Some dogs seem to like being “tickled” in the process. They almost laugh when their bellies are scratched in just the right spot.

6. Sing to them.

No one loves the sound of your voice more than your pets! Find some great music YOU love and let out your inner rock star. When we sing, we breathe more deeply, which instantly reduces stress and blood pressure.

7. Try dog yoga.

Dog yoga, or doga, has been around for about 20 years. It’s based on the idea that many yoga poses and the ways that dogs stretch are very similar. (The pose is called downward dog for a reason!) Practitioners of doga believe that practicing yoga together deepens the bond between dogs and their humans. Dogs get many of the same benefits from doga that humans get from yoga: improved circulation, soothing, relaxation and stress relief, gentle exercise, mobility, discipline and impulse control. For dogs that are older or recovering from an injury, doga can provide a way to get some physical activity without damage to joints. YouTube has tons of videos that can help you build a doga workout at home. You may also be able to find in-person doga classes in your community, which may help build connections for you too!

Pets are great for helping us relax and making us healthy. Taking an active role in making that happen can only boost the benefits that they bring to us, both physically and emotionally.

April 23, 2021August 21, 2023

Emotional Support Animals versus Psychiatric Service Dogs: What You Need to Know

We all know what pets are. They’re part of the family and bring us unconditional love and joy every day! Technically, pets are “animals that are kept for company or entertainment rather than being working animals, laboratory animals or livestock.” That dry definition doesn’t come close to describing the wealth of benefits we get from having pets in our lives!

But it’s important to know exactly what defines a pet and separates it from both Emotional Support Animals (ESA) and Psychiatric Service Dogs (PSD), as well as what separates those two categories from each other.

What is an Official ESA®?

Emotional support animals are a gift to people suffering from a range of disorders. They provide support and can calm people in the middle of a panic attack, suffering from depression or managing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). ESAs don’t require special training or perform special tasks. For someone to have an ESA, a doctor must prescribe that to them based on a diagnosed mental or emotional condition that requires additional emotional support.

Although ESAs are protected from pet restrictions and fees by the Federal Housing Act, private businesses can choose whether or not to allow ESAs on the premises. Most businesses accept well-behaved Emotional Support Animals, including public transportation, ride shares, shops and restaurants. More employers than ever are open to the presence of well-behaved ESAs in the office as well, if conditions are safe for both employees and the ESA.

Although the majority of ESAs are dogs, with cats second, they can be anything: rabbits, hedgehogs, even birds, and more!

What is a Psychiatric Service Dog?

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) carefully defines service animals. Service animals must be trained to perform specific tasks and perform services to their owners. Seeing-eye dogs for the visually impaired are probably the type of service dog that most people are familiar with. But service animals can perform a variety of tasks for people with a range of conditions, including deafness, mobility issues, multiple sclerosis, cancer and epilepsy. That includes mental and emotional illnesses as well, which is where Psychiatric Support Dogs (PSDs) come in.

Many of the same conditions that emotional support animals can help their owners with can be helped by psychiatric service dogs as well. Those include depression, anxiety, PTSD, learning disabilities, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorders (ADHD), phobias, anxiety, depression, bi-polar disorder, autism and obsessive compulsive disorder.

Why do we say Psychiatric Service DOG? The ADA is strict that service animals, unlike ESAs, must be dogs, and in very specific circumstances, horses. So to simplify, we talk about Psychiatric Service Dogs rather than Psychiatric Service Animals.

Just like any other service dog, PSDs must perform specific tasks for their owners and be trained to do so. Those tasks may include:

Retrieving medications
Reacting and alerting the owner to specific sounds like fire alarms
Grounding and reorienting people having an anxiety or panic attack
Assisting with balance for people who are unsteady walking due to medications or other issues
Locating people or places in a crowd
Interrupting and redirecting people exhibiting OCD or self-destructive behaviors
Navigating a person through a stressful environment such as a crowd and buffering them from people in that crowd
Searching the room for people with PTSD
Maintaining healthy routines through task reminders
Performing tactile stimulation and pressure therapy when their owner is in distress

It’s important for owners of PSDs to understand that no one is allowed to ask your PSD to demonstrate the tasks that it is trained to perform. They may ask IF you have a condition that requires the assistance of a PSD, but not what that condition is nor how severe it is. That’s part of your right to privacy under the ADA.

Like all service animals, PSDs have the same rights to be in any place that serves the public. While businesses may elect not to all ESAs inside, they must allow PSDs in. That includes all housing and lodging, including apartments and hotels; public transit and airplanes; and all public spaces including offices, university campuses, restaurants, bars, stores, supermarkets and more.

What’s the difference between a PSD and an ESA?

The difference in the two types of animals is primarily about the tasks they are trained to perform and the type of animal. No bird or rabbit, no matter how supportive they are to a person in need, can be a PSD, but they can be ESAs. At the same time, if a dog is not trained to perform a specific task, it cannot be a PSD, but it can still qualify as an ESA. The difference rests in the type of animal and its training.

How Do I Know If I Need an ESA or a PSD?

It’s important to understand that the difference between an ESA and a PSD does not depend on the severity of a mental or emotional condition. The best way to find out if you need a PSD is to work with a licensed doctor who will ask you to describe your symptoms and assess your situation to determine the need for a PSD or an ESA. If a doctor concludes that you can benefit from a psychiatric support dog, that’s the way to go.

Can My Pet Become an ESA or a PSD?

Absolutely! Any dog or cat can be an Official ESA^®, regardless of training. If a doctor confirms that your pet provides you with necessary emotional support, then your pet qualifies as an ESA. It’s a little trickier to turn a pet into a PSD, but it’s still possible. Remember, a PSD can only be a dog, so you can’t turn your cat into a PSD. However, if your doctor determines that you need a PSD and you already have a dog, your dog can become a PSD with some training.

How Can My Pet Become an ESA?

A medical professional licensed in your state must prescribe that you need an Emotional Support Animal to help you get through a mental or emotional illness. A simple questionnaire is the start to getting your pet certified as an Official ESA^®! We work with licensed physicians in every state to provide access to ESAs to people in need of that support. We understand that ESAs perform a valuable service – not the same as PSDs but just as important and necessary. To get your pet certified as an Official ESA^®, contact us today so we can help you

April 19, 2021May 6, 2021

Bring on the Green: Houseplants That Are Safe for Pets

Houseplants are good for us! They help keep our indoor air clean and bringing nature inside can change the entire dynamic and feel of a home. Many people feel more connected to the Earth when they are able to put their hands in soil and work with living plants, especially those who live in high-rises or town homes without yards. But as much as we enjoy them, some houseplants and cut flowers may not be so great for our furry roommates.

Did you know that some common houseplants can make your pet sick? Pets, especially cats, are often drawn to the leaves and eat parts of houseplants. And often, we keep those beautifully tempting houseplants at their level, especially larger ones with substantial pots. (Many a holiday has been disrupted by taking sick kitties to the vet after they’ve gotten into a lovely Christmas poinsettia!) It’s important to protect your pets from the detrimental effects of poisonous houseplants.

Plants to Avoid

Besides poinsettias, some of the most common toxic houseplants include many varieties of lilies, including Easter lilies and Lily of the Valley, daffodils, tulips, azaleas, aloe vera, some kinds of ivy, elephant ears, some ferns, cyclamen, desert roses, asparagus ferns and jade plants. Eucalyptus is so irritating to dogs that even the smell of it in your home can trigger a bad mood or lethargy in your pooch!

The symptoms of toxic poisoning can be painful and distressing for both pet and owner. Different toxins can affect different parts of your pet’s body and the intensity of their reaction can be affected by things like their size and weight, as well as how much of the plant they ingested. Common signs of poisoning are:

Plants to Embrace

So how can your pets and plants co-exist safely and happily? Avoid the risk of a sick cat or dog by making sure that your houseplants are non-toxic. Beautiful options abound that will be safe for your furry friends and bring the joy of living plants to your home. Besides the ones listed here, you can always ask your local nursery about a plant before you buy it or check with your vets office as you’re planning to shop.

- Green Plants: Many types of common, easy-to-care-for houseplants are safe for your cats and dogs.
- Non-flowering Colorful Plants: Although these don’t flower, they have colorful, festive leaves that brighten any space!
- Flowering Plants: Although there are fewer flowering plants that are safe for your pets, but the ones that make the grade are gorgeous!
- Edible Plants: If they’re safe for humans, they’re more likely to be safe for your pets.

It’s important to know that even plants that aren’t poisonous or toxic can cause digestive upset if your dog or cat eats them, or enough of them. Try to keep plants where your pets can’t be tempted by them, such as in hanging planters, on shelves out of their reach or in spaces they don’t visit frequently.

With a little research and planning, it’s easy to keep your home beautiful and your pets safe with lovely and safe plants that you can enjoy no matter the season.

NOTE: If you suspect that your pet has ingested a toxic plant or any other kind of poison and you can’t get to the vet right away, contact the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661 or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 immediately, anytime of the day or night, if your pet displays symptoms or if you suspect exposure to or ingestion of a toxin. Both organizations charge a small fee for their assistance.

July 29, 2019July 29, 2019

The Difference Between an Emotional Support Animal VS. Service Animal

One important thing service dogs and emotional support animals have in common is their ability to change the lives of their owners, enabling their human companions to successfully navigate everyday life. However, there are far more differences when it comes to discussing the idea of an emotional support animal vs. a service animal.

Here’s everything you need to know about understanding the difference between an emotional support dog and service dog, including legal regulations, how to qualify, and the role each one fulfills.

What is the purpose of an emotional support animal?

As you may have guessed from the name, an emotional support animal, or ESA, provides its owner with emotional support. This support may come in the form of affection, relief of stress or anxiety, companionship, and friendship. ESA’s help the owners feel comforted and reassured through the animal’s presence. An emotional support animal can be a dog, cat, rabbit, hamster, snake, or nearly any other type of animal, depending on the owner’s specific needs and relationship with the animal.

Unlike a typical pet, an emotional support animal is specifically suited to improving the day-to-day functionality and happiness of an owner with particular mental and/or emotional needs. Many ESA owners find that caring for an animal and making responsibility and routine a part of their daily lives also helps them reduce difficult symptoms associated with a diagnosed mental, emotional, or psychological condition.

Why would you need an emotional support animal?

If you have emotional, mental, or psychological challenges that impair your ability to successfully manage everyday life, you may be able to benefit from an emotional support animal. Because ESAs can help their owners in a variety of ways, including reduction of stress and anxiety, you may discover that your unique needs can be supported by an emotional support animal well-suited to you.

What qualifies you for an emotional support animal?

One of the most common obstacles that holds people back from getting an ESA is the question, “Do I qualify for an emotional support animal?” You may be surprised to learn that it’s easier than you think to receive approval for an emotional support animal, including obtaining the necessary documents to allow you to travel and live with your ESA.

Qualifying for an emotional support animal requires a person to have a diagnosed emotional, mental, or psychological condition, the symptoms of which can be effectively reduced by an ESA. There is a wide range of conditions that can receive doctors’ recommendations for an emotional support animal, with some of the most well-known including the following:

Anxiety disorders
Stress
Panic disorders
Depression
Post-traumatic stress disorder
Mood disorders
Phobias

Ultimately, only a licensed professional can provide you with an official “prescription” for an emotional support animal. Talking to a doctor about your symptoms, whether you’ve been diagnosed or not, is the first step in receiving the help that an emotional support animal can provide.

Are emotional support dogs considered service dogs?

One of the most common sources of confusion surrounding ESAs is the topic of ESA vs. therapy dog vs. service dog. While it is true that all three types provide their human companions with the assistance and the support they need to achieve a higher quality of life, each one serves its own unique purpose.

Emotional Support Animal

An emotional support animal gives affection, companionship, and comfort to an owner suffering from a diagnosed mental, emotional, or psychological condition. An ESA does not perform specific tasks, but instead simply serves as a support system in both everyday life and challenging situations. Through their companionship, they can help their owners live happier, healthier lives and overcome the challenges of their specific condition.

Service Animal

A service animal may be paired with a person with visual impairment, seizure disorder, hearing loss, mobility challenges, diabetes, and other conditions. Service dogs participate in strict training that enables them to help their owners function on a daily basis, including completing tasks and alerting them to potential oncoming emotional or physical episodes. In order to be considered a service animal, training and certification must be achieved.

Therapy Dog

A therapy dog gives comfort and joy, much like an emotional support animal. However, therapy dogs generally work with large groups of people rather than a specific owner, visiting facilities such as hospitals, schools, and elderly care facilities under the care of a handler.

What training is required for a service animal vs. emotional support animal?

Another important difference between service animals and emotional support animals is the type of training required. A service animal advances through a series of intense training tasks and courses, receiving certification upon their successful completion. This training ensures that they are able to serve the medical needs of their owner, as well as handle unique tasks (such as opening doors or turning on lights) on a consistent basis.

In contrast, an emotional support animal does not have to undergo specific training or receive an official certification that verifies their abilities. While an ESA owner is typically asked to possess a doctor-provided ESA letter as documentation, the animal itself does not need any particular paperwork to be considered an ESA. It’s important that an emotional support animal be able to behave appropriately in both private and public environments so that they can sufficiently comfort their owner and avoid problematic behavioral issues. However, standard training (whether at home or via a professional) is typically enough to build these foundational skills and positive habits.

Are emotional support dogs covered by the ADA?

The ADA, or Americans with Disabilities Act, is a law that prevents any form of discrimination against disabled persons in various aspects of public life, including education, transportation, employment, and housing. The ADA does make provisions for service animals, granting them access to public places. However, because emotional support animals are categorized separately from service animals, they are not granted the same level of coverage.

It’s important to understand that emotional support animals do not necessarily have the same rights as service animals. For example, your ESA can be refused access to a public space. Despite this, you do have certain legal protections when it comes to being an emotional support animal owner.

The Fair Housing Act details the concept of reasonable accommodation in housing, requiring property owners and landlords to make a fair attempt to allow ESAs, regardless of “no pet” policies. The Fair Housing Act can also protect you from pet rent and other additional housing charges because the law makes a clear distinction from regular “pets” and emotional support animals. Another legal protection for ESA owners is the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), which outlines the expectations and rights provided to disabled persons traveling by airplane. The ACAA allows emotional support animals to travel in the main cabin of an airplane, instead of being confined to the cargo hold where they are unable to provide the comfort their owner may need.

Ultimately, while emotional support animals are not provided the same protections as service animals under the ADA, there are still laws that safeguard your ESA rights.

Are emotional support dogs allowed everywhere?

No. Unlike service animals, which are granted legal access to public spaces, emotional support dogs do not necessarily have the same rights. A business owner or employee can legally ask you to remove your ESA from the building, but many are willing to make accommodations if possible. If you are planning to bring your emotional support dog into a specific business, it may be a good idea to call ahead and inform the management of the situation.

Emotional support dogs do have rights when it comes to housing and air travel, as long as you are in possession of a proper ESA letter. In these cases, your ESA documentation can ensure that you can live and travel with your emotional support animal without facing the discrimination often brought about by misinformation.

Can my pet become an emotional support animal?

While service dogs are required to complete intensive training facilitated by an experienced handler, any pet can be an emotional support animal. For many ESA owners, their chosen ESA is a pet they already owned before receiving their ESA letter. Perhaps you already have a dog, cat, or other pet that helps you cope with the emotional or mental challenges of your condition. If so, your existing pet may be an ideal choice for your emotional support pet.

How do I choose an emotional support animal?

If you don’t yet own a pet that may be a good candidate for an ESA, you can choose to adopt one. Again, there are no specific requirements for the type of animal that can be an ESA, so you are free to choose one that suits your personality, lifestyle, and personal preference. The emotional connection is the key element in your relationship with your ESA, and it is something you can establish after building a relationship with your new pet.

Keep in mind that certain animals, such as spiders and reptiles, can be refused access to airplane cabins – so if you’re hoping to travel with your ESA, take this into consideration. Additionally, avoid animals with a history of aggression or behavioral problems, and this can lead to increased stress and their inability to successfully function as an ESA.

Learn More about How to Get an Emotional Support Animal from Support Pets

If you’re wondering whether an emotional support animal may be able to improve your quality of life, Support Pets is here to help. Using our stress-free, online system, you can get the ESA approval documents you need to move forward in the process. In addition to online ESA approval, we also provide a variety of helpful resources about emotional support pets, helping you learn more about important topics such as how to talk to your doctor about getting an ESA, ESA laws, and how to know if you qualify for an ESA.

When you need an ESA letter from a licensed physician and fast, easy approval, you can trust Support Pets. Take our short quiz to find out if you qualify in just seconds and take your first steps towards benefitting from the specialized care and compassion only an emotional support animal can provide.

May 15, 2019July 29, 2019

3 Surprising Ways an Emotional Support Animal Could Improve Your Life Overnight

Over the last five years, demand for Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) has boomed by the millions—and that’s no surprise …

Practically any pet owner can tell you about the positive effect their animals have on their mental health and stability, providing critical companionship and affection that can help you get through life’s toughest challenges and make your best days even better.

But most Americans don’t yet realize that there’s actually a scientific basis for these benefits … that the assistance provided by an ESA has been studied and measured in the laboratory. The results have been tested and proven. And for tens of millions of Americans, an Emotional Support Animal could provide the exact type of help they’re looking for …

ESA Benefit #1: A Practical Answer to the America’s Anxiety & Depression Epidemic

According to a recent study from the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), some 80 million households in the USA alone are wrestling with the effects of anxiety and depression. That’s approximately two-thirds of all households in the country struggling with major mental health issues.

While doctors are often eager to solve the problem with prescription medications (many of which come with a laundry list of side effects), some folks would prefer a simpler and more effective solution … which is where Emotional Support Animals come in …

ESA Benefit #2: Boosting Mental Health for You (and Your Family)

The ADAA conducted another study, this time interviewing pet owners all across America, and found that a whopping 74% of pet owners reported mental health improvements from pet ownership, with another 75% saying that pet ownership helped improve the mental health of their family members.

This means that even those people not responsible for purchasing Emotional Support Animals (including practically anyone in your household) could benefit from having one around.

ESA Benefit #3: Living Longer, Stronger & Happier

Another study—this one conducted over 12 years and published in Scientific Reports by Swedish scientists—concluded that dog owners have a “lower risk of cardiovascular disease” and even live longer than the average person who doesn’t own pets. According to the Senior Researcher and the study’s author, it can be “a very efficient lifestyle intervention to get a dog.”

Lock in Your Pet’s ESA Verification Before it’s Too Late!

With so many scientifically proven benefits, it’s practically a “no-brainer.” ESA certification can vastly improve convenience and quality of life for both you and your pet, which is why it’s becoming increasingly popular all across America.

With ESA certification, you and your pet can travel freely and live practically anywhere without harassment, stress or unnecessary costs.

But lawmakers and enforcement agencies are now taking steps to make ESA certification MORE expensive and MORE difficult to obtain. Which means the time to act is NOW!

So click HERE to lock in your pet’s ESA certification today—and start enjoying the proven health benefits of an Emotional Support Animal!

April 5, 2019July 16, 2019

You (and Your Pet) Have Rights!

Understanding Legal Protection for Emotional Support Animals

Between 2016 and 2017 alone, United Airlines reported a whopping 75% increase in the number of Emotional Support Animals aboard their planes.

Why such a rapid jump in numbers?

Because Americans are finally waking up and realizing that they (and their pets) have rights. Since 1986 in the case of the ACAA, you’ve had the right to travel freely and live practically anywhere you and your pet desire without unnecessary cost or harassment.

And with new scientific studies proving the medical benefits of pet ownership on an almost daily basis, now is a better time than ever to start acting on those rights.

Let’s take a quick look at the laws in question—specifically the Fair Housing Act and the Air Carrier Access Act …

Exhibit A: The Fair Housing Act

Under the FHA (in conjunction with the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act), ownership of an “assistance animal” is legally allowed residence in places with “no pet” policies, or places which require pet deposits based on type of animal, breed or weight.

So what makes an assistance animal according to federal law?

It’s simple. You must be able to answer one of the following questions:

(I) Does the person seeking to use and live with the animal have a disability — i.e., a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities?

(2) Does the person making the request have a disability-related need for an assistance animal? In other words, does the animal work, provide assistance, perform tasks or services for the benefit of a person with a disability, or provide emotional support that alleviates one or more of the identified symptoms or effects of a person’s existing disability?

To avoid further misunderstanding, the FHA makes it explicitly clear that “conditions and restrictions that housing providers apply to pets may not be applied to assistance animals.”

So, if a potential landlord is threatening to:

— Reject an ESA based on their previous experience with a certain breed or animal type

— Reject an ESA based on rules established by management (a corporate “no pet” policy)

— Reject an ESA based on speculation over what damage that animal might cause Gently let them know that these things won’t hold up in court.

Exhibit B: The Air Carrier Access Act

The U.S. Department of Transportation, under the latest ACAA regulations, gives you the right to bring an ESA pet onboard any domestic flight without the usual hassles:

· Charging You Other Hidden Inconvenience Fees
· Not Allowing Your Pet Into The Terminal
· Not Allowing Your Pet In The Cabin Of The Plane
· Charging You Pet Passenger Fees

USDOT even provided a video (watch below!) to explain how to get through the lines and into the plane with your ESA.

NO EXTRA FEES—EVER.

As the video also shows, all airline staff are made aware of the rules in their training and are held accountable to them at all times.

Getting Your ESA Documentation Before it’s TOO LATE

Because emotional disabilities are often not “readily apparent” to airline officials or housing management, the FHA and ACAA proper documentation from a licensed professional regarding your pet’s ESA status.

That’s it. If they ask for anything further, like medical records, also let them know that that is a breach of the FHA and that it’s not in their best interest to make similar demands.

While these laws may change in the near future, you and your pets still have the right to fly the friendly skies or live in any community you choose without undue harassment or added expense.

So get your pet’s ESA certification finished TODAY—so that you can live and travel easier anywhere you like!

September 14, 2018September 14, 2018

Housing

Housing ESA Doctor Approval Order Form

Excellent, because having an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) approved for housing will allow you to live freely in apartments, houses, condos and more. Now just fill out your details below and you’re all set. Now just fill out your details below and you’re all set. Now just fill out your details below and you’re all set.

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August 21, 2018March 22, 2019

Asking a Doctor for an Emotional Support Animal Letter

The only way you can ensure proper treatment for yourself and your emotional support pet is by getting an emotional support animal letter. However, there are many misconceptions about emotional support animals, the registration process, and the benefits that come with them. In this article, we will give you reliable information on how to get an emotional support animal for when you fly and to show your landlord.

Ready to qualify for your ESA letter online? Get started below.

Why do You Need a Doctor to ‘Prescribe’ an Emotional Support Animal?

The rules are very clear when it comes to this question. In order to get a valid emotional support animal letter, it needs to come from a licensed mental health professional. Licensed mental health professionals include psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinical social workers, psychiatric nurses, licensed professional counselors, and other licensed therapists.

If you get your letter or license from a non-licensed individual, you might as well flush it down the drain as airlines or housing facilities will not recognize it.

Be careful where you get your ESA letter from

Many people experience some kind of psychological or emotional difficulty in their everyday lives.

In these situations, an emotional support animal can help the person through love and companionship. That’s why it’s important that the animal can live with you and travel with you as needed. The rights that an emotional support animal has come from an emotional support animal letter. Once you get the letter, you can have your pet live with you even in housing situations that otherwise don’t allow pets. In addition, your pet will be able to fly with you in the cabin of an airplane with no additional cost. Once this happens, your pet is now an emotional support animal.

This is all great news. However, what’s not so good is the fact that there are some people who try to take advantage of unsuspecting animal lovers. There are many websites that claim to offer legitimate emotional support animal registrations, but most of these websites are scams. There have been many reports of people getting their ESA registration documents online, only to later find out that the paper they received was fake and their time and money were wasted.

To avoid these scams, you need to know who can and who can’t provide an ESA letter.

Elements of a Legitimate ESA Letter

Knowing what an emotional support animal letter contains is another way to prevent fraud.

This is what your ESA letter needs to have:

Mental health professional’s letterhead and signature, as well as date of issuance
Mental health professional’s license type, date of license, license number, and the state that issued the license
A mental health condition as listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders
Confirmation that the condition is significantly affecting your daily activities and that an emotional support animal is a vital part of your life
Description of how the animal will help the condition (though they do not need to perform a task specifically for your condition)
“Prescription” or recommendation for an ESA
Your name and details about your pet (type, breed, name, etc.) is not required but may be included

Ask a Doctor for an Emotional Support Animal Letter

Like we have already explained above, only a licensed mental health professional can “prescribe” or recommend a valid emotional support animal letter.

If you’re already in therapy for a mental condition, ask your therapist for a letter. Your therapist will decide whether a pet can help in your recovery. If they believe it can and believes in animal therapy, you will get your emotional support animal letter in no time and with minimum hassle.

If you’re not already in therapy, you have two options.

The first option is starting therapy by seeing a mental health professional and explaining your situation. After the doctor has determined whether your condition qualifies for an emotional support animal, you can get your letter.

You need to be aware that some doctors are just not interested in writing emotional support animal letters. There are a few reasons for this. Some doctors simply don’t believe that ESAs can help treat mental disorders. However, the worst thing is that the doctors see more and more people who just want a free airplane pass for their pet. Hence, whoever comes to them specifically to ask for an emotional support animal letter immediately gets rejected.

There are pros and cons of asking a doctor for an emotional support animal letter in person. The main pro is that you can be sure you will get a valid letter. The number one reason some people don’t go down this route is that it can be very expensive, time-consuming, and they may not even know about emotional support animals.

The other option for getting an ESA letter is looking for providers online.

GET AN ESA LETTER IN 3 EASY STEPS

We have said it before, and we will say it again so it gets carved into your memory.

The person who can “prescribe” or recommend a recognized emotional support animal letter is a licensed mental health professional.

You need to always keep this information in mind.

Also, keep in mind that there are sites that provide fake ESA letters and offer to list your pet in so-called emotional support animal registries. However, there is no official registry. On the same note, nobody can buy a registered emotional support animal.

Connecting with a real licensed therapist from Support Pets can ensure that you get a valid emotional support animal letter.

How Can You Recognize Reliable Websites from Scammers?

First of all, any website that doesn’t offer to connect you with a mental health professional is a scam.

On the other hand, websites that offer to ease and speed up communication with licensed therapists are the real thing. These websites don’t simply offer letters in exchange for your money. Instead, they offer to connect you with professionals who are licensed and authorized to approve you for an emotional support animal letter.

You will need to answer some questions, and the website will forward your answers to licensed therapists. Then, the therapist in your area will then review your answers and contact you directly.

When it’s determined that you could actually benefit from an ESA, you will receive the letter. The letter will arrive in both electronic and paper form to your home address. Once you get it, you get the benefits that come along with it. You can see why this is different than paying for a letter, which is not allowed.

Red Flags for Fake ESA Letters

Low Cost Letters – A legitimate ESA letter is written by a licensed mental health professional. These therapists and doctors value their time and level of education. If you find a cheap alternative, your letter may not be from a licensed therapist that can assist you.
ESA Registration Services – Emotional support animals are not required to be registered. There is no governing body that registers emotional support animals. Airlines and landlords will DENY your “registered ESA” if you do not have a legitimate ESA letter.
Instant Approval – A licensed therapist must evaluate your need for an ESA. You cannot be instantly approved for an ESA letter. It takes time to approve each individual by a licensed mental health professional.

The Benefits you Get with an Emotional Support Animal Letter

Emotional support animals have certain rights that regular pets don’t have.

A legitimate emotional support animal letter can ensure that your pet can fly with you on an airplane at no additional cost. In addition, the letter allows your pet to live in a housing facility that generally doesn’t allow pets. You’ll also be free from paying any pet deposits for housing or monthly pet fees.

Although ESAs don’t require any special training, they need to behave well, be calm and responsive to the owner’s commands.

If you’d like to find out if you qualify for an Emotional Support Animal, please click the button below to begin your evaluation.

Federal laws protect your rights*